numbers

Numbers in Sign Language

Learn how to sign numbers – how high can you count?

1. On each separate hand, touch the fingertips all together.
2. Then bring the fingertips of both hands together and twist the wrists back and forth a few times.
3. This sign doesn’t have a great visual cue, you just have to learn it!

Teaching Tips:

Sometimes preschoolers and Kindergartners mix up numbers and letters. Pull a selection of both letters and numbers (maybe five of each to start with, working your way up to 10 and 15). Mix them up and have your child sort the letters and numbers into two different piles. Have her sign numbers as she shows you the numbers pile.

You can create fun learning games for Kindergartners using numbers. Write digits on pieces of paper and place them around the room. Tell children you are going on a “numbers hunt”. Start with asking them to find one number at a time, and then add on by asking them to find a series of numbers. For instance, “Find the numbers 1, 3, and 7!” This will help with number identification and also retaining multi-step directions.